American Association of Engineering Societies

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Diversity in Engineering

In order for the U.S. to remain technologically competitive, the engineering profession must better engage the knowledge and talents of our diverse population. Accordingly, it is imperative that all individuals -- without prejudice -- are provided with equality of opportunity to pursue and advance in engineering careers. Under representation continues to be a problem facing the profession.

AAES strongly supports increasing the strength of the engineering workforce by building its diversity. Promoting greater diversity in the profession requires a consistent, long-term effort focused on the education, recruitment, retention, and advancement of all groups, and particularly those who historically have been under-represented. Such an approach will require the combined participation of businesses, government, professional societies, and the education community.

Policy Objectives

Increase the visibility of engineering as a career option for all individuals, with emphasis on historically under-represented groups
Identify and advance programs that ensure equality of opportunity in math and science education in the nation's elementary and secondary schools (K-12)
Encourage efforts to create greater diversity among the faculty and students in science and engineering programs at America's colleges and universities
Promote mentoring, career counseling, and leadership development, as well as employment policies and workplace practices designed to attract and retain individuals representative of the nation's diversity
Identify and reduce barriers to employment and career advancement for qualified individuals without prejudice

Society Statements

ASCE

Achieving Diversity and Equity (PS 417) : 8/15/02

Development of Minority and Women Businesses (PS 430) : 4/1/97

Women in American Society of Civil Engineers (R 474) : 8/15/02

ASEE

Statement on Diversity : 8/15/02

ASME

Women and Minorities in Science, Engineering and Technology : 8/14/02

IEEE-USA

Career Equality in Engineering, : 8/13/02
Ensuring a Strong High Tech Workforce for the 21st Century : 8/13/02
Measures of Engineering Supply and Demand : 8/13/02
Public Private Competition for Engineering Services : 8/13/02
Service Contracts and Engineering Compensation : 8/13/02
Use of the Title "Engineer" : 8/13/02

NACME

Performance of Engineering Institutions in Creating Access : 10/1/98
Affirmative Action and Engineering : 10/1/98
Affirmative Action and The Scientific Enterprise : 9/1/98
Technological Innovation and Education Reform : 8/1/98
Engineering at a Crossroads : 7/1/98
Over-reliance on Foreign Engineering Talent : 3/1/98
Bridging the Gap That Divides America : 3/1/98
Engineering and Affirmative Action: Crisis in the Making : 10/1/97
Affirmative Action : 4/1/97

SWE SWE

Diversity in Engineering : 8/15/02